Taking the Statue of Liberty Ferry

By Dom Bewley

Exploring one of the most iconic landmarks in the world doesn't have to mean a long trip to Liberty Island. Whether you're looking for an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty or wish to explore Ellis Island, taking a ferry from either Manhattan, NY, or Liberty State Park in Jersey City is both easy and affordable.

The cost of taking these ferries can vary depending on which route you choose; fares for adults range from $18-$27 with tickets inclusive of both stops at both islands. If visitors wish to access the Statue, additional tickets will need to be purchased - it’s recommended that these are bought in advance due to high demand during peak times.

On-board visitors can expect friendly staff who are more than willing to answer any questions, restrooms, snacks/drinks kiosks and spectacular views. The ride itself typically takes between 20-30 minutes each way depending on which route you take, so if time is limited it’s important to plan ahead.

Once at Liberty Island visitors can explore all that this historic landmark has to offer; various guided tours, food choices such as hot dogs or sandwiches at concession stands available onboard the ferry and even special events held seasonally such as live music performances which are free with ticket purchase! After exploring Ellis Island visitors will have more than enough time for iconic photos before heading back.

Visiting New York City? Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must! Not only does it offer unparalleled views and incredible experiences - it's also a great opportunity for some iconic pictures with Lady Liberty herself! Don't forget your camera – this is an experience not soon forgotten!

Don't worry; if you don't know what that is or where to get it from, we're going to tell you right now. Prepare yourself for the ultimate guide to taking the Statue of Liberty ferry, and what you'll find when you reach its historic shores!

What is the Statue of Liberty Ferry?

As you may have gathered, it's a ferry that takes people between New York's mainland and Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands tall.

From where does the Statue of Liberty Ferry depart?

If you're traveling from New York, the departure point is in Battery Park:

Statue Cruises Kiosk, Battery Park

New York, NY 10004

The closest bus stop is Stop 12, 13, or 14 on the Downtown route.

The closest subway stop is Whitehall Street/South Ferry/Bowling Green.

If you are traveling from New Jersey, the departure point is Liberty State Park:

1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City

NJ 07305

The closest stop is Liberty State Park Station on the HBLR.

How often does the ferry leave?

It's worth checking the official timetable to ensure your timings are up to date, but on average, the ferry departs from either port every 25 minutes.

How do I get a ticket?

We've got you covered – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry tickets are available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you:

1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Your Attraction Pass includes admission to dozens of attractions.

2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Your Explorer Pass includes admission to up to 10 attractions.

It's worth noting that, whichever way you decide to go, booking is required to get the ferry, and early booking is highly recommended because, as you may have guessed, it is an incredibly popular tourist destination!

The History of Ellis Island

Standing tall as a symbol of liberty and justice, the Statue of Liberty is an important part of America's history.

The island itself is named after Samual Ellis, who owned the landmass before it was opened to the public. Ellis Island served as the primary entry point for immigration into the United States, so much so that a third of all Americans can trace their family tree to someone who landed on the island! But its job as an immigration entry point ended nearly 100 years ago, and it wasn't actually opened to the public until 1976.

Nowadays, it hosts countless tourists every year, who flock there from all over the world to explore one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet.

What to expect on Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty

This one's a no-brainer. You wouldn't even be reading this if not for Lady Liberty herself! Yes, the Statue of Liberty now stands tall on Ellis Island. Visitors can walk around the National Monument and see the big girl up close - at least if they look up!

Then, when you've enjoyed the view, so to speak, you can enter the Statue of Liberty Museum, which contains tons of amazing artifacts that detail the statue, and the island's, history in much greater detail than we ever could. See the original torch up close, touch a copper rendition of Lady Liberty's face, and explore interactive exhibits like a reimagining of the studio where the statue was first conceived.

Then, head across to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where you can learn more about the island's importance in populating America. Through first-hand accounts, artifacts, and other exhibits, you'll piece together the island's rich history. Then, try tracing your family tree back to the island in one of the many databases you'll find.

Then, when you've had your fill, simply hop back on the ferry and cross over to the mainland!

From the views of the harbor and cityscape, to learning more about its history and standing in awe of this magnificent monument, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty provides an unbeatable experience full of wonder and amazement. With the accessibility for all, the convenience of booking your tickets ahead of time, and spectacular views from the crown of Lady Liberty that you won't find anywhere else, taking a ferry ride to this iconic landmark is an adventure like no other.

And that's our guide to taking the statue of liberty ferry, and what you'll find on Ellis Island! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience - book your ferry ticket today! Looking for more fun-filled adventures in the Big Apple? Check out our guide to The RIDE, your one-stop shop for every other New York landmark on your bucket list! Want to know what other attractions are covered with your pass? Check out all of them here!

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How to Get Around in NYC

One city, 8 million residents, countless opportunities to get lost. Chances are, unless you know New York City very well, you will find yourself lost or on the wrong path once or twice. Don't beat yourself up if that happens to you, even native New Yorkers take the wrong train or walk in the wrong direction on occasion. To minimize the amount of time you waste getting lost, it's a good idea to get familiar with the plentiful transportation options New York City has to offer. [spacer height="20px"] The New York City Subway [caption id="attachment_1195" align="aligncenter" width="1051"] 7 Train in Queens | Photo by @nyclovesnyc[/caption] By far the most efficient way of getting around is the New York City Subway. Though the intricate web of colors and letters and numbers may seem daunting, this trusty old system will take you pretty to and from pretty much every corner of New York City. The NYC subway is one of the oldest in the world, and frankly, it shows. The vestibules are often smelly, dirty and congested and the old-fashioned trains are often late, or in desperate need of repair. Despite this, Most New Yorkers use the subway every day for their commute in place of driving, and you should too. Follow alert.mta.info for current delays or reroutes. The best way to navigate the subway is to get really familiar with the infamous Subway Map. This work of art will tell you everything you need to know, as long as you know roughly where you are and where you're going. Once you have found your destination stop and identify the line you have to take, you have to pay attention to whether the train is going Uptown or Downtown. The Uptown and Downtown terms are relative to where you currently are, typically if you're heading North (or to the Bronx or Queens), take the Uptown train and if you're headed South (or to Brooklyn), take the Downtown train. For easy navigation, you can pick up a hard copy of the map at most subway stations, or you can download it onto your phone. Several handy apps are also available, if you like to get thorough. If you're unsure about local customs, please familiarize yourself with Subway Etiquette. Keep in mind that each single ride on the subway is $3, or $2.75 with a preloaded MetroCard. If you're here for a while, you can get an unlimited weekly MetroCard for $32 or a monthly for $121. A new physical card will run you $1. [spacer height="20px"] Municipal Buses [caption id="attachment_1197" align="aligncenter" width="1295"] MTA Bus Map[/caption] Much like the subway, the municipal buses are run by the MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority). They are available in every borough and offer transportation to some areas the subway just doesn't reach. For most MTA buses, you can use the same MetroCard you purchased at the subway station (Express buses do not accept unlimited MetroCards). 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With the day pass, you can ride as many times as you want, for $12. Remember that you have 30 minutes before you have to dock again. Download the Citibike app to get information about the closest docking stations, including real-time availability map. If you would rather get a better bike for a rental, without being limited to the 30-minute timeline, you can try Central Park Sightseeing, Central Park Bike Rent or Blazing Saddles. Blazing Saddles offers cruiser rentals down at South Street Seaport, and pier 84, while the other two companies offer rentals and tours in Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge. You can rent from a [spacer height="20px"] Hop on Hop off Bus [caption id="attachment_1199" align="aligncenter" width="1139"] Big Bus Tours[/caption] One of the most scenic and informative ways to see New York is on top of a Big Bus double-decker bus. These buses go around in several loops, have a tour guide and stop by most of the major attractions. You can either take Big Bus as a sightseeing tour and do the whole loop (each loop is about 2 - 2.5 hours) or hop on and off wherever is convenient for you. Keep in mind that the buses go in NYC traffic and can be quite slow. It's not the best transportation option when you're in a rush, but it's a great way to get acquainted with the city when you first arrive. Each New York Pass holder receives a free 1-day ticket, covering the Downtown, Midtown and Uptown loop. [spacer height="20px"] Foot [caption id="attachment_1230" align="alignright" width="1500"] The High Line | Photo via TimeOut New York[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] The most popular way of getting around in NYC, hands down, is walking. New York City is one of the most walkable cities, due to its concentration on a relatively small piece of land. You can technically walk the entire island of Manhattan in the span of a day. 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New York City taxis are heavily regulated, so you don't have to worry about getting ripped off if you hail a cab, but please remember the etiquette attached to riding in a taxi. Regardless of how far you go, please remember to tip your cab drivers, preferably in cash. [spacer height="20px"] Uber (and other ride share programs) [caption id="attachment_1231" align="alignright" width="2000"] Uber | Photo via The Bubble[/caption] Uber has become insanely popular in recent years. Ride share programs have a few advantages over taxis. They tend to be cheaper, you can call them from an app, wherever you are, and you don't have to tip. You can call an Uber, Lyft or Juno, at any time, wherever you and and in a few minutes your car will be waiting for you. One draw back is that during peak time, in popular areas, Uber has surge pricing, so you can end up paying much more than you would in a taxi. 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